In Ben's rookie year of 2001, my son (3 year old at the time), wife, and I made the trip to Pittsburgh to follow the Crew. Yes, this was the miserable series following the infamous "sweep suits". Noticing the new, young phenom signing near the visitor's dugout, my son and I decided to try to get an autograph. Upon reaching Ben, my son let out a loud "Hi Ben Sheeps!" The 2nd time Sam said it, I apologized to Ben. The 3rd time, Ben looked my young son straight in the face and let out a mighty BAAAA. Ben gained fans for life that day.